Our Summary

This study looked at how well two types of diagnostic procedures (Transjugular liver biopsy and hepatic venous pressure gradient measurement) worked for patients with different types of liver disease. The study included 575 patients, some with liver cirrhosis (a late stage of scarring on the liver) and others without.

The researchers found that the biopsy procedure was more successful in patients without liver cirrhosis. However, there was no significant difference when it came to the pressure measurement procedure for both groups. They also found that the biopsy samples were shorter for patients with liver cirrhosis.

Additionally, the study found that medical treatment was adjusted in about 28% of patients. However, in patients with liver cirrhosis, the biopsy results less often led to changes in treatment compared to patients without liver cirrhosis. The study concluded that the success of the biopsy and decisions about treatment are closely linked to whether or not a patient has liver cirrhosis.

FAQs

  1. What were the two types of diagnostic procedures the study examined for patients with liver disease?
  2. Did the success of the diagnostic procedures depend on whether a patient had liver cirrhosis or not?
  3. How often did the biopsy results lead to changes in medical treatment for patients with liver cirrhosis compared to those without?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might advise a patient undergoing a liver biopsy to discuss their specific condition, including the presence of liver cirrhosis, with their healthcare provider to understand the potential implications of the biopsy results on their treatment plan. They may also recommend closely monitoring for any changes in symptoms or side effects following the procedure. It’s important for patients to communicate openly with their healthcare team to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for a liver biopsy include those with:

  • Liver cirrhosis or suspected liver cirrhosis
  • Chronic liver disease (such as hepatitis B or C, fatty liver disease, autoimmune hepatitis)
  • Elevated liver enzymes without a clear cause
  • Monitoring of liver disease progression or treatment effectiveness
  • Evaluation of liver tumors or masses
  • Suspected liver infections or inflammation
  • Evaluation of abnormal liver function tests

It is important for healthcare providers to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of a liver biopsy for each individual patient, taking into account their specific medical history, symptoms, and overall health status.

Timeline

Before the liver biopsy:

  • Patient undergoes pre-procedure evaluation to assess their overall health and determine if they are a suitable candidate for the biopsy.
  • Patient may be asked to fast for a certain period of time before the procedure.
  • Patient may receive sedation or local anesthesia to minimize discomfort during the procedure.

During the liver biopsy:

  • Patient lies on their back or side on an examination table.
  • The healthcare provider uses ultrasound or CT scan to locate the liver and guide the biopsy needle into the liver.
  • A small sample of liver tissue is removed using a needle, which is then sent to a lab for analysis.
  • The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes.

After the liver biopsy:

  • Patient is monitored for a few hours to ensure there are no complications such as bleeding or infection.
  • Patient may experience mild pain or discomfort at the biopsy site, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
  • Results of the biopsy are typically available within a few days to a week, and the healthcare provider will discuss the findings with the patient and determine the next steps in treatment.

Overall, the liver biopsy is a relatively safe and effective procedure for diagnosing liver conditions, and can provide valuable information to guide treatment decisions for patients with liver disease.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Why do I need a liver biopsy and what information will it provide about my liver health?
  2. What are the risks associated with a liver biopsy and how common are complications?
  3. What type of biopsy procedure will be performed (traditional biopsy or transjugular liver biopsy) and why?
  4. How will the biopsy results be used to determine my treatment plan?
  5. How long will it take to receive the results of the biopsy?
  6. Will I need to make any changes to my medication or lifestyle before or after the biopsy?
  7. What symptoms should I watch for after the biopsy that may indicate a complication?
  8. What alternatives to a liver biopsy are available and why is a biopsy recommended in my case?
  9. How often will I need to undergo a liver biopsy in the future to monitor my liver health?
  10. Can I get a copy of the biopsy results for my own records?

Reference

Authors: Eichholz JC, Kirstein MM, Book T, Wedemeyer H, Voigtländer T. Journal: Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2021 Dec 1;33(12):1582-1587. doi: 10.1097/MEG.0000000000001904. PMID: 32925497